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Most wildlife issues are a slow burn—a noise in the attic that goes on for weeks. But sometimes, the situation is immediate and dangerous. HWCS offers 24/7 emergency service, but homeowners often panic and don't know when to call. ## True Emergencies ### 1. Bat in the Living Space If a bat is flying around your bedroom, kitchen, or living room, **this is an emergency**. * **The Risk:** Rabies exposure. If you were sleeping, you cannot be sure you weren't bitten. * **Action:** Close interior doors to confine the bat to one room. Do NOT open a window (we need to catch it to test it). Call us immediately. ### 2. Animal Inside the Living Area A raccoon falling through a ceiling tile, a squirrel running around the kitchen, or a snake in the hallway. * **The Risk:** Physical injury to people/pets and massive property damage as the panicked animal destroys the room trying to escape. * **Action:** Evacuate people and pets from that room. Close the door. Stuff a towel under the door gap so it can't squeeze out. Call us. ### 3. Fire Hazard Smoke coming from a chimney because of a nest blockage, or the smell of burning plastic/electrical wires accompanied by scratching noises. * **Action:** Call the Fire Department (911) first. Then call us to remove the animal source. ## Non-Emergencies (Can Wait Until Morning) * Noises in the attic (unless breaking through). * Animal trapped in a window well (it's safe there for a few hours). * Dead animal smell (unpleasant, but not life-threatening). When in doubt, call our line. Our dispatchers can triage the situation and tell you if a technician needs to come out at 3 AM or 8 AM.
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